Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Dedicates World Skill Campus in Ludhiana, Aims to Empower Youth
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Launches World Skill Campus in Ludhiana, Aims to Transform Youth’s Future
Ludhiana, April 3 – Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann unveiled the World Skill Campus of Excellence in Ludhiana today, which includes two state-of-the-art institutions: a newly renovated Industrial Training Institute (ITI) and a Multi Skill Development Centre (MSDC). The initiative, dedicated to providing world-class skill training to the state’s youth, is a crucial part of Mann’s vision to reshape Punjab’s future by tackling unemployment and empowering young people with the necessary skills to excel in the workforce.
Addressing a gathering at the launch, Chief Minister Mann discussed the government’s accomplishments over the last three years, describing how his administration has cleared the “mess” left by previous regimes and set the state on the path to development. His government, he said, is focused on rebuilding Punjab’s infrastructure and economy, ensuring that the state’s young people have the resources and opportunities to thrive.
Rebuilding Punjab: From Struggles to Solutions
The Chief Minister pointed to the challenges Punjab has faced, including regressive policies and the patronage of criminal elements under past governments. Mann emphasized that since taking office, his administration has prioritized the restoration of peace and prosperity. He noted that investments worth approximately ₹97,000 crore have already been secured in Punjab over the past three years, thanks to the conducive atmosphere created by the government’s reforms.
Mann was particularly critical of the previous government’s neglect of the state’s water resources. He revealed that 117 out of 153 blocks in Punjab were facing severe water depletion, with many areas having gone into the “dark zone.” However, under the current administration, the government has revived over 15,900 water courses, ensuring that even the remotest villages now have access to water.
Focus on Youth and Skill Development
The centerpiece of the event was the World Skill Campus of Excellence in Ludhiana, which is set to play a pivotal role in transforming Punjab’s youth employment landscape. With the capacity to provide skill training to over 3,000 students annually, the campus offers specialized courses in Artificial Intelligence, Aviation, Tourism, Fashion Designing, Welding, and more, ensuring that students receive hands-on training in high-demand sectors. This initiative aims to equip young people with the expertise required to meet the demands of the rapidly evolving job market.
The campus also houses cutting-edge technology courses, such as Robotic Welding, 3D Printing, and CNC Machine operations, taught in digital classrooms with advanced audio-visual setups. These training programs are accredited by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), ensuring that the skills imparted meet national standards.
Closing Tolls, Opening Opportunities
In a strong statement against rising tolls imposed by the BJP-led NDA government, Mann highlighted the Punjab government’s initiative to close 17 toll plazas across the state, easing the financial burden on commuters. This move, he said, stands in stark contrast to the policies of the central government, which has been increasing toll rates regularly.
Mann also spoke about the state’s power supply improvements, including the purchase of a thermal plant to ensure Punjab becomes surplus in power production. Acknowledging the significant strides made in electricity accessibility, he pointed out that 90% of households in Punjab now receive free power, a promise made by the AAP-led government.
Tackling Drugs and Unemployment
In his speech, Mann also addressed the menace of drugs that has plagued Punjab for years. He vowed that his government would continue its crusade against the drug mafia, emphasizing that the state is now focused on snapping the supply lines of drugs and seizing the assets of drug traffickers. The government has already made significant strides, with many big players in the drug trade arrested and their properties seized.
The Chief Minister also underscored the importance of providing government jobs to Punjab’s youth as a way to combat unemployment—a primary cause of many social issues. Since taking office, his government has provided over 55,000 government jobs, with a focus on youth empowerment and economic independence.
The Future of Punjab’s Youth
Mann expressed his desire to see Punjab’s youth excel in every field, calling them “planes” that need a strong launchpad to soar. He pledged that his government would do everything possible to help young people achieve their goals. The World Skill Campus, he said, was one such launchpad—a place where youth can receive the training they need to succeed in the modern economy.
Furthermore, the government is committed to ensuring that skilled manpower is available for the local industries, which are in dire need of a trained workforce. The Multi Skill Development Centre aims to fill this gap by offering a range of free courses to the youth, preparing them for careers in fashion designing, beauty and wellness, nursing, CNC programming, and more.
A Vision for a Better Punjab
As the event came to a close, Mann reiterated his commitment to creating a prosperous Punjab—a state that is peaceful, economically robust, and free from the scourge of drugs. He called on the youth of Punjab to take advantage of the new opportunities created by his government, promising that his administration would continue to work tirelessly to improve the state’s infrastructure and the quality of life for its residents.
The World Skill Campus of Excellence represents a significant leap forward in fulfilling the Chief Minister’s vision for a skilled and empowered Punjab.